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Automating Test Processes in Modern PCBA Manufacturing
November 12, 2024 | Josh Casper, Horizon SalesEstimated reading time: 1 minute
ICT and functional test play critical roles in the electronics manufacturing process. In many cases, these processes are the final line of defense in identifying defects, preventing failures from reaching the end user, and safeguarding a manufacturer's reputation.
A growing problem in this area has been the sheer increase in production output from the SMT line. As components get smaller, PCBs will continue shrinking, allowing engineers to design highly panelized products. SMT processes such as printing, placement, and 3D inspection have kept pace with these developments, while traditional testing methods have not scaled to the same degree. The growing mismatch between SMT line speeds and offline test cells has led to higher costs, increased scrap, and significant operational inefficiencies, especially in these highly panelized products.
How do we solve this problem? Automation of course. Over the years, developments in ICT and functional test technology have significantly closed the gap between SMT production and the test process, leading to major shifts in how this process is approached. I’ll explore the unique challenges associated with the test area, and the key benefits to investing in an automated approach.
Continue reading this article in the November 2024 issue of SMT007 Magazine.
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I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week
12/06/2024 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007This week’s must-reads include a discussion on innovation and embedded components within the layers of a PCB with Accurate Circuit Engineering. We revisit the real cost to manufacture in a case study on how a seemingly small design error can have a dramatic effect on your end customer’s costs. Dan Beaulieu provides this month’s book review highlighting the criticality of fostering creativity in the workplace. Bert Horner of The Test Connection discusses his decision to launch a new, complimentary business venture, The Training Connection; and Ramon Roche of NCAB talks about electric vehicle charging.
EpoxySet to Exhibit at MD&M West
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The Training Connection Difference
12/04/2024 | Andy Shaughnessy, I-Connect007Bert Horner, president of The Test Connection, has recently launched The Training Connection, a new company that addresses critical training needs in test engineering and development. With a focus on essential methodologies like design for test (DFT) and IPC standards, the initiative promises to enhance the skills of professionals in the field. At PCB Carolina, Bert talked about the program, its positive reception, and the growing demand for practical, effective training solutions within the industry.
Skunk Works Demonstrates Airborne Battle Management of AI-Controlled Aircraft
11/27/2024 | Lockheed MartinLockheed Martin Skunk Works, in partnership with Lockheed Martin's Demonstrations and Prototypes organization and the University of Iowa's Operator Performance Laboratory (OPL), showcased a crewed-uncrewed teaming mission where an airborne battle manager issued real-time commands to AI-controlled aircraft through a touchscreen pilot vehicle interface (PVI).
NEOTech Significantly Improves Wire Bond Pull Test Process
11/25/2024 | NEOTechNEOTech, a leading provider of electronic manufacturing services (EMS), design engineering, and supply chain solutions in the high-tech industrial, medical device, and aerospace/defense markets, proudly announces a major advancement in its wire bond pull testing process, reducing manufacturing cycle time by more than 60% while maintaining industry-leading production yields of over 99.99%.